We are lucky to live in one of the most beautiful places on the planet, from our bold coastlines to our enchanting forests. The natural beauty of our state brings in millions of tourists every year and is among the top reasons that people choose to live in Maine. As we celebrate Earth Day on Monday, April 22, Boothbay Region Land Trust would like to offer 10 suggestions for things you can do locally to protect our beautiful lands and waters and make a difference in the health of our planet:

• Bring reusable bags to Hannaford, or any other local store you support. Keep a few in your car or purse so that they are nearby any time you purchase something.
• Grab a reusable water bottle and bring your own coffee mug. Some coffee shops will give you a discount if you bring your own mug, and you will keep a disposable cup out of the landfill.
• Take the free trolley to get around downtown Boothbay Harbor in the summer months. Better yet, walk from place to place or ride a bike.
• Shop at the Boothbay Farmers Market on Thursday mornings in the warmer months. Support our local farms and fisheries whenever possible throughout the year.
• Check our local thrift shops when you need an item. From clothing to household essentials, stores Like Creature Comforts and the S.t Andrews Hospital Auxillary Thrift Shop have quality preowned items that have plenty of life left in them.
• Recycle at the Boothbay Region Refuse Disposal District. Find out what can be recycled on their website: http://www.boothbayrefuse.com/recycling-list/
• Fill your garden with native plants. Not only are native plants beautiful, but they are adapted to our climate and host our pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
• Let your voice be heard. Feeling passionate about a certain environmental cause or piece of legislation that you believe should be passed? Contact our local representative to share your thoughts.
• Join the Boothbay Region Land Trust and support conservation. Spend time outside and enjoy the 26 preserves and 35 miles of hiking trails that offer free access to our region.
• Visit the Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 20 at 10 a.m. on the lawn of the Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, and meet local organizations that are making a difference for the earth.

So this Earth Day we urge each of you to take steps to help protect this beautiful place we all love. Even simple daily choices make a difference.

For more information on Boothbay Region Land Trust, the preserves, and upcoming events please visit our website www.bbrlt.org or stop by our headquarters at Oak Point Farm, 60 Samoset Road Boothbay Harbor.